ScotsFest 2025 Lyon College in Batesville
Promotion
ScotsFest 2025 Returns to Lyon College with Highland Games, Music, Food & Family Fun
Batesville, AR – October 17–19, 2025
ScotsFest, Independence County’s largest annual festival, returns to Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas, October 17–19, bringing together a vibrant mix of Scottish heritage, live entertainment, family fun, and homecoming activities. With deep ties to Lyon’s founding roots, this event has grown into one of the premier Scottish cultural festivals in the Southern United States.
A Celebration of Scottish Tradition and College Spirit
Founded by Presbyterian ministers of Scottish descent in 1872, Lyon College honors its heritage through ScotsFest—a beloved tradition since 1979. What began as a small campus event has grown into a full-scale cultural celebration drawing over 6,000 visitors annually. The festival supports the Scottish Heritage Program and student scholarships, while providing a major economic boost to Batesville and Independence County.
“From music and dance to the strong sense of community it brings, the festival highlights the lasting connection between the college and the region we call home,” said Gina Garrett, interim VP for advancement.
ScotsFest 2025 Highlights
Location: Lyon College Campus, Batesville, AR
Dates: October 17–19, 2025
Admission: Free general admission; ticketed special events
Schedule & Tickets: arscottishfest.com
New Attractions for 2025
ScotsFest 2025 adds fresh experiences for all ages:
Robert Lewis Campbell Scottish Clan Village – 20+ clans, music, dancing, and cultural exhibits
Live Performances – Celtic singer Misty Posey, bagpiper Patrick Regan
“Have Axe, Will Travel” Axe Throwing
Pirate Battles – Featuring the Ilse Witch and Queen Anne’s Revenge
Tartan Weaving Demonstration by Cody Norton
Petting Zoo for families and children
Entertainment Lineup
Headliner:
Mudmen – Canadian Celtic rock band known for high-energy shows and global appeal
Other Performers Include:
Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps (Celebrating 100 years!)
Dozens of pipe bands performing “Amazing Grace” and “Scotland the Brave” during Saturday’s noon opening ceremony
Events & Activities
Highland Games – Watch athletes compete in traditional Scottish heavy athletics
Scottish Dancing – Authentic Highland and ceilidh styles
Living History Reenactments – MacLachlan’s Jacobite Highlanders, Colonel Munro’s 37th Regiment
Dog Show & Sheepdog Demonstrations
British Car Show
Alumni Reunions & Pep Rally
Homecoming Football Game – Lyon Scots vs. Centenary College, 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan Service – Traditional Sunday worship
Club 50 Luncheon – Honoring alumni and heritage
Authentic Scottish Cuisine
Indulge in savory meat pies, pastries, and classic Scottish dishes, along with regional food vendors offering crowd favorites. Food trucks and vendor tents will be available throughout the weekend.
Ticketed Events
Some events require separate admission, including:
Friday Alumni Awards Banquet
Saturday Cèilidh Feast
Entertainment Zone Tent
Petting Zoo
Proceeds benefit the Scottish Heritage Program and Lyon College student scholarships.
“We welcome everyone to join in celebrating our Scottish roots and Lyon College’s strong community connections,” said Pam Palermo, festival director.
Don’t miss your chance to experience one of the South’s most unique cultural events this fall. Mark your calendars for ScotsFest 2025, where heritage, music, and family fun come together in the Ozarks.
Stay Connected
Location: Lyon College, Batesville, AR
More Info: arscottishfest.com
Follow on Social Media: #ScotsFest2025 #ArkansasScottishFestival #LyonCollege
